02/10/2007

The Regulation of Investigatory Powers (RIP) Act has actually been live for a while, but from today all telecoms companies must store records of all phone calls (and mobile networks SMS messages) for a year.

Though the actual conversation are not recorded (and SMS messages are not saved), but the caller and called numbers (and how long they talked) must be stored, for SMS the origination and destination number are stored.

Telcos have always stored the data (they use it for billing), but it's now who has access to it which comes into force. Around 650 organisations will be able to request records under the RIP Act, from normal agencies such as government, police, security forces to councils and even the charity commission and various quangos.

About Me

I have over 20 years experience in the Telecoms/Internet/Mobile industries. I was involved with internet in the UK before it had a commercial presence, internet streaming from its beginning (he was the first UK Real Networks customer), and set-up the first Internet Dance Radio Station (Gaialive.com). Steve was also involved with the first netcast of BigBrother (UK).

I am an acknowledged independent Industry expert and use those abilities in consulting and working with a number of investment partners on various projects. I'm also is a freelance journalist writing on technology subjects.